Things To Do
in Ubud
Ubud sits in the lush central highlands of Bali, surrounded by terraced rice fields and forested hills. It blends ancient temples, vibrant arts, and a thriving wellness scene into a calm, culturally rich hub. Narrow lanes are lined with galleries, cafés, and traditional markets that invite slow, immersive exploration.
The surrounding river valleys and volcanic backdrop frame a landscape that feels intimate, spiritual, and endlessly photogenic.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Ubud Monkey Forest, where you can stroll among ancient temples and playful monkeys. A guided tour will provide insights into the unique flora and the history of this sacred site. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Balinese breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and aromatic coffee.
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ubud Art Market, where you can shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs from local artisans. Take your time to haggle with the vendors and appreciate the intricate artistry of their work. After shopping, visit the nearby Puri Saren Agung, the Royal Palace, to wander through its lush gardens and learn about Ubud's royal heritage.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local warung, where you can indulge in authentic Balinese dishes like Nasi Campur or Babi Guling. Following your meal, enjoy a captivating traditional dance performance at the Ubud Palace, where the rich cultural traditions of Bali come alive. End the evening with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Ubud, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Begin your morning with a scenic drive to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, where you can take in breathtaking views of the emerald green paddies. Walk along the terraces and learn about the traditional Subak irrigation system that makes this area so special. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape as you appreciate the serene surroundings.
After your rice terrace adventure, head to the nearby village of Penglipuran, known for its well-preserved traditional Balinese architecture. Wander through the village streets and interact with local residents, gaining insight into their daily lives and customs. Enjoy a simple lunch at a local eatery, featuring traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
Return to Ubud for an evening of relaxation at a wellness spa, where you can indulge in a traditional Balinese massage. After your rejuvenating experience, dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the picturesque rice fields. As night falls, explore local art galleries showcasing the works of Balinese artists, immersing yourself in the island's creative spirit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-4 |
| 🚗Taxi/ride-hailing within town | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and arts scene
- Stunning natural landscapes and rice terraces
- Excellent wellness and yoga retreats
- Wide range of accommodations and dining options
- Crowds and rising prices in peak season
- Traffic can be slow and roads narrow
- Some areas rely heavily on tourism and may feel commercial
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harga?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Maaf" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Ubud
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic layered rice fields perched along steep slopes, best light is early morning or late afternoon for soft shadows.
A scenic path along rolling hills and bamboo-lined valleys—great for wide-angle landscape shots.
Ancient temple complexes amid forested paths; capture mischievous monkeys and carved stone structures (keep a respectful distance).
Water temples with lotus ponds and intricate carvings, especially photogenic at golden hour.
Ancient rock carvings and lush grounds with a sense of history and jungle atmosphere.
Food in Ubud
Ubud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A plate of white rice served with a selection of vegetables, meat or tofu, sambal, and flavorful sauces.
Must-Try!
Balinese spit-roasted pork with crackling skin and aromatic spices.
Minced fish or meat mixed with coconut, spices, and wrapped around lemongrass sticks.
Duck stuffed with spices and slow-cooked until tender and flavorful.
A spiced mix of minced meat, coconut, and herbs often served with rice.
Fragrant fried rice with vegetables and often a choice of protein; a Balinese staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, spices, snacks, and local crafts—great for sampling fruits and street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes where required, and avoid tapping or pointing feet toward sacred objects.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites; some ceremonies require a respectful distance.
Use your right hand for giving/receiving; the left hand is considered impolite in some contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Ubud
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up bills or leave 5–10% at nicer venues if service charge isn’t included.
Cash in IDR is widely accepted, especially at markets and smaller warungs. Credit cards are commonly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels; ATMs are plentiful in Ubud.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with plenty of sunshine; ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and temple visits. Slightly crowds-driven, especially in peak months.
Frequent brief rain showers, lush greenery, and cooler evenings. Humidity is higher and rain can affect outdoor plans; carry a lightweight rain jacket.
Ubud at Night
Hiking in Ubud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An easy to moderate route with sweeping valley views and lush scenery, ideal for day trips.
Gentle hillside trails weaving between emerald terraces, suitable for casual hikers.
Airports
How to reach Ubud by plane.
Bali's main gateway located in Denpasar; approximately 60–90 minutes from Ubud by road depending on traffic. International and domestic flights operate here; taxi or pre-arranged transfer is common.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Hindu, deeply connected to temples, ceremonies, and agriculture.
A diverse mix drawn to wellness, arts, and sustainable tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Numerous studios and retreats; a cornerstone of the Ubud scene.
Popular ways to explore villages and rice terraces.
Evening performances and classes are common for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ubud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many warungs offer tempeh, tofu, and vegetable-based dishes; ask for no shrimp paste or fish sauce if avoiding animal products.